06.03.2025

Gait rehabilitation is central to restoring mobility after neurological or musculoskeletal disorders. In recent years, exoskeletons have made considerable progress as an assistive technology and offer effective therapy options.

We provide an overview of the state of the art and introduce two pioneering companies that presented their exoskeletons at MEDICA 2024: ExoAtlet and RoboCT.

Technological advances in exoskeleton-supported rehabilitation

Exoskeletons are robotic systems that support the human musculoskeletal system. They work with sensors, motors and control algorithms to simulate natural gait. Modern exoskeletons adapt to the user and enable targeted rehabilitation through various operating modes including passive, active and assistive support. They also collect real-time data on movement patterns, which improves the adaptation of therapy.

Products and exhibitors around this topic

Discover more interesting products and exhibitors in the database of MEDICA:

ExoAtlet: Efficient rehabilitation through functional stimulation

Image: Man with crutches and an exoskeleton looks at something on a cell phone display together with another man; Copyright: ExoAtlet

The exoskeletons from ExoAtlet integrate active electrical stimulation.

ExoAtlet wants to make exoskeletons available both in medical facilities and for home use. CEO Ekaterina Bereziy emphasizes: "The future of exoskeletons is within reach. We are already seeing the first signs of widespread use in the USA and Germany, where exoskeletons are being reimbursed for private use."

An outstanding feature of the ExoAtlet exoskeletons is the integrated electrical stimulation module, which specifically activates the muscles in the respective gait phases. This not only supports the movement sequence but also promotes muscle regeneration and neuronal plasticity. The systems are also characterized by their user-friendliness. "We want our devices to be simple, reliable and easy to use, both for users and for their families and therapists," explains Bereziy.

Another important issue is standardization and integration into medical treatment guidelines. According to Bereziy, there is often a lack of knowledge about exoskeletons: "The technology is still new, and even doctors often only have an incomplete understanding of its possibilities." ExoAtlet is therefore working closely with research institutions to scientifically prove its effectiveness.

RoboCT: AI-supported gait rehabilitation

RoboCT's "Hugo" exoskeleton is aimed at adults with spinal cord injuries or after stroke, while "KGO" was developed specifically for children with muscular dystrophy or cerebral palsy. CEO Leo Q. Wang describes the company's mission: "We want to help more people achieve a better physical condition and improve their mobility."

A special feature of the RoboCT systems is the integration of AI and a real-time data platform. The exoskeleton analyzes the user's movement data and adapts the support accordingly. Wang explains: "The exoskeleton recognizes the effort required and provides targeted support to complete the step. Our platform also enables therapists to analyze the data in real time and adapt the treatment."

In addition, RoboCT offers various operating modes – from passive to active support – that enable flexible use in different rehabilitation phases. This technology opens new possibilities to continuously optimize training programs.

Clinical efficacy and patient response

Exoskeletons bring about physiological and biochemical changes in the patient's body. Among other things, this affects oxygen saturation, muscle activity and neurological reorganization.

Patient reactions are also promising. "Many are skeptical or anxious at first. But as soon as they have taken their first steps with an exoskeleton, they often experience a boost in motivation," reports Bereziy. In some cases, stroke patients have been able to significantly improve their mobility after just a few weeks or even do without walking aids.

Prospects and challenges

ExoAtlet and RoboCT see a bright future for exoskeletons in medical rehabilitation. According to Wang, exoskeletons have evolved over the last ten years from experimental laboratory devices to practical therapeutic aids: "In the past, they were only found in universities and research laboratories. Today they are used in clinics, and in future, they could even be available at home."

However, funding remains a key challenge. Bereziy criticizes the fact that health insurance companies in many countries are still reluctant to cover the costs: "In countries with health insurance systems, people are often less willing to invest in their own health." Nevertheless, there are initial programs in Germany, the USA and Japan that provide financial support for exoskeletons.